Hard chrome is an electroplating process that is also known as industrial hard chrome, functional chrome, and engineering chrome. Hard chrome plating enhances the original steel surface properties against wear, corrosion with low coefficient of friction and adhesion that minimizes seizing and galling making for a more durable components to extend their lifespan.
The Hard Chrome coating serves several purposes.
- Increased hardness of HRC 65-70
- Excellent sliding wear resistance
- Great abrasion resistance
- Low coefficient of friction
- Excellent release properties
- Enhanced corrosion resistance
- High heat mitigation
- Superior bond strength to base metal
As a result, hard chrome plating finds applications in several industries. Here are some industries that commonly use hard chrome plating:
- Automotive Industry: Hard chrome plating is extensively used in the automotive industry for various applications. It is used to enhance the durability and wear resistance of components like piston rings, cylinder liners, fuel injectors, hydraulic cylinders, and crankshafts.
- Oil and Gas Industry: In the oil and gas industry, hard chrome plating is employed to protect components used in drilling, production, and refining processes. Parts like valves, pumps, pistons, and cylinders are often hard chrome plated to enhance their corrosion resistance and reduce wear in challenging environments.
- Industrial Manufacturing: Hard chrome plating is widely utilized in various manufacturing processes. It is commonly used to improve the surface hardness and wear resistance of tools, dies, molds, and machine components. This helps extend the lifespan of these parts and enhances their performance.
- Hydraulic and Pneumatic Industries: Hard chrome plating is commonly applied to hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, rods, and pistons. The hard chrome coating reduces friction, prevents corrosion, and provides a smooth surface finish, ensuring efficient operation and longevity of these components.
- Printing and Packaging Industry: Hard chrome plating is used in printing and packaging equipment, such as printing rollers, gravure cylinders, and embossing rolls. The hard chrome coating enhances durability, reduces friction, and provides a smooth surface, ensuring high-quality printing and packaging results.
- Mold and Die Industry: Hard chrome plating is applied to molds and dies used in plastic injection molding, die casting, and metal stamping industries. The hard chrome coating improves the release properties, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of these tools, increasing their durability and productivity.
